Tuning a DZ 302
 

Guys this is my first post. I've always loved this forum but never have had a super car that fits in. I do have a 69 Pro Touring Camaro but that's for different forums. The reason I'm posting is because I work on classics as a side job to my real job. I have a 69 X-33 that has been sitting for a few years I am in the middle of getting it back in shape for a customer. One of the questions that I have is setting the timing at 4 degrees. Most small blocks I set at 14 to 16 initial and shoot for 32 to 34 total. This 302 runs lazy at 4 degrees initial, if I bump it up to 14 or 16 it sends my total over 45 degrees I don't want to modify the dist. on this original car. What are you guys doing? Also the dwell seems to like 25 degrees over the recommended 30 degrees. Plug gap is at 35 degrees.

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

Modify the distributor. The advance is way lazy in that era - comes in way too late.

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Tony_H</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Guys this is my first post. I've always loved this forum but never have had a super car that fits in. I do have a 69 Pro Touring Camaro but that's for different forums. The reason I'm posting is because I work on classics as a side job to my real job. I have a 69 X-33 that has been sitting for a few years I am in the middle of getting it back in shape for a customer. One of the questions that I have is setting the timing at 4 degrees. Most small blocks I set at 14 to 16 initial and shoot for 32 to 34 total. This 302 runs lazy at 4 degrees initial, if I bump it up to 14 or 16 it sends my total over 45 degrees I don't want to modify the dist. on this original car. What are you guys doing? Also the dwell seems to like 25 degrees over the recommended 30 degrees. Plug gap is at 35 degrees. </div></div> Thousandths I meant.

P

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Kurt S</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Modify the distributor. The advance is way lazy in that era - comes in way too late. </div></div>
I agree with Kurt. Set the points at 30 and the timing at aroound 12 at idle. Try to have your distributor guy bring the advancement in around 2,500 to 2,800 rpm's. That will be easy once you have the distributor on the machine and redo the curve. I say run some R44 plugs or that equivalent gaped at 32 and set the valves cold at about 25 lash. Make sure carb is not leaking and I would change the fuel filters too. 302's are lazy not matter what unless you change some gearing around. Of course fresh gas with maybe a couple gallons of high octane &quot;leaded&quot; fuel mixed with 93.

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

Thanks guys.

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

I found optimum for my conditions is 12-14 initial, and 36 total coming in at around 2,500 rpm.

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

what he said ^^^ 14 initial. 36-38 total. Have it all in 2500-3000rpm.

Plug gap .028-.030.

WE dont even run vaccume advance anymore. Plug it off.

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: COPO PETE</div><div class="ubbcode-body">what he said ^^^ 14 initial. 36-38 total. Have it all in 2500-3000rpm.
Plug gap .028-.030.
WE dont even run vaccume advance anymore. Plug it off. </div></div>
What plugs do you find work best? Currently using AC R45S......

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

R44S work good for me. I also think I have used Autolite 85's??? I believe.

Re: Tuning a DZ 302
 

You can also try NGK XR5 V-Power plugs,thats what i use.Heard good things about NGK plugs.